Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera
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The Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera puts creativity in your hands, with the venerable name of Leica to back it up. A 12.1Mp CMOS sensor and the 24x optical zoom Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5-108mm ASPH. lens work together to provide beautifully detailed images. The lens travels the spectrum of focal lengths from 25mm wide angle to 600mm super-telephoto - making it a versatile zoom lens, able to capture your vision in any shooting situation. Additionally, the Power OIS image stabilizer ensures that no matter what you're shooting your images will be clean, even when shooting handheld.
The V-Lux 3 shoots still images in JPEG or RAW image files. The photographer can choose from program, aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual on the mode dial. Additional focusing modes like macro, macro zoom, and AF tracking are an option for shooting stills; metering modes such as multi-field, center-weighted, and spot can be chosen from. ISO ranges from 100-3200 and a wide range of shutter speeds give you the flexibility you need to capture the images you desire. Of course, 1920 x 1080/60p high definition videos can be made using the V-LUX 3, as well.
The V-Lux 3 utilizes a 3.0" LCD monitor for composition and playback. The camera also has a color LCD viewfinder with an adjustable diopter to set the viewfinder for your vision. The built-in flash provides a number of setting options, while the hot shoe enables connection of an external flash as well. A mic or remote can be connected to the V-Lux 3 via the 2.5mm mic jack for recording high-quality audio with video or hands-free shooting, respectively.
The camera uses SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for storing your images and videos, and has an additional 70MB internal memory. Other highlights include a self-timer, burst shooting modes for up to 60 consecutive shots per second, and an HDMI out for a one-cable connection to your HDTV. Additionally, the V-LUX 3 comes with a free download of Adobe Photoshop Elements and Adobe Premiere Elements for photo and video editing on your computer.
- The Ideal Camera For Every Situation
- With a Leica V-Lux 3, your creative freedom is boundless. Its 24x super-telephoto zoom makes capturing sweeping landscapes just as easy as bringing even the smallest details into the foreground. Thanks to its newly developed 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor, the camera captures images in exceptional quality. At the same time, the video capability of the V-Lux 3 allows the recording of moving pictures in full-HD quality
- Extreme Range of Focal Lengths
- What makes the V-Lux 3 so special is its 24x super-telephoto zoom lens. This Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5-108mm f/2.8-5.2 ASPH. lens has an enormous range of focal lengths covering the spectrum from a 25mm wide angle to a 600mm super-telephoto lens. On the one hand, its 25mm wide angle setting enables photographers to strongly emphasis perspectives, while on the other hand, its 600mm telephoto setting captures pin-sharp details of objects even at extremely long distances - even when shooting handheld, thanks to the efficiency of its Power OIS image stabilizer. If you like to shoot landscapes, architecture, sport, travel, portraits or wildlife, the flexibility of its lens makes the V-Lux 3 the ideal camera for every situation
- Exceptional Image Quality
- The newly developed 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor guarantees the exceptional image quality of the Leica V-Lux 3. It ensures that images are almost totally free of noise - even under adverse lighting conditions and when using high-sensitivity settings. With its high contrast range and natural, perfectly saturated colors, the V-Lux 3 sets entirely new standards in its class - for still pictures and video alike
- Video in Full-HD Quality
- The V-Lux 3 captures full-HD video in AVCHD format with 1920 × 1080 pixels and 60 full frames per second. This 1080/60p video format not only guarantees the perfect rendition of fast movement in outstanding detail, but is also ideal for conversion to alternative resolutions and refresh rates. For instance, conversion to MP4 format, which can be quickly and conveniently transferred for use on mobile devices and the Web without any further conversion. An integrated stereo microphone with a wind-noise filter ensures outstanding audio quality. A deletion option for individual sequences means that editing can begin in the camera without having to download the data to a software-based editing suite
- Sensationally Fast
- Speed has the utmost priority in the V-Lux 3. The autofocus system reacts in less than a tenth of a second and reliably captures fast-moving subjects. The continuous-shooting rate is also impressive. The V-Lux 3 delivers consecutive burst shooting at a rate of up to 12 frames per second, even at full resolution; at a reduced resolution of 3.5 megapixels it manages a fantastic 60 frames per second. Users will capture every action and important moment, even when shooting sports or wildlife
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Effective: 12.1 Megapixel, Actual Pixels: 12.8 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/2.33" CMOS |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MJPEG, MPEG-4, MPEG-4 AVCHD |
| Max Resolution | 12.0MP: 4000 x 3000 @ 4:3 |
| Other Resolutions |
12MP: 4000 x 3000 @ 4:3 10.5MP: 4000 x 2672 @ 3:2 9MP: 4000 x 2248 @ 16:9 9MP: 2992 x 2992 @ 1:1 9MP: 4000 x 2248 @ 16:9 10.5MP: 4000 x 2672 @ 3:2 12MP: 4000 x 3000 @ 4:3 9MP: 2992 x 2992 @ 1:1 |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
Leica DC Vario-Elmarit EFL: 4.5-108 mm (35mm equivalent: 25-600 mm) Aperture: f/2.8 (W) - 8 (T) 1 Please Note:Filter Thread - 52mm close |
| Zoom |
Intelligent Zoom: 24x Digital: 4x |
| Focus Range |
Manual: 11.81" (30 cm) - 6.56' (2 m) Macro: 0.39" (1 cm) - 3.28' (1 m) 2 Please Note:Manual also: P/A/S Macro also: Intelligent auto/movie close |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 100-3200 |
| Shutter |
15 - 1/2000 seconds
3
Please Note:Starry Sky mode: 15s, 30s, 60s close |
| Exposure Metering | Center-weighted, Multi, Spot |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority Compensation: -3 EV to +3 EV (in 1/3 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Manual, Tungsten |
| Burst Rate |
Up to 2 fps at 12 MP for up to 100 frames Up to 5 fps at 12 MP for up to 100 frames Up to 12 fps at 12 MP for up to 15 frames |
| Self Timer | 2 Seconds, 10 Seconds |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash |
Yes: Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Off
4
Please Note:Auto with slower shutter speeds and pre-flash, On with pre-flash close |
| Effective Flash Range | 0.98 - 29.53' (0.3 - 9 m) |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | 70MB |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Audio Recording | With Video |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% |
| Screen | 3.0" LCD Rear Screen (461000 pixels) |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 1/8" Microphone, Audio Out, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Environmental | |
|---|---|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) Humidity: 10 - 80% |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | BC-DC-9 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 7.2VDC, 895mAh |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.88 x 3.15 x 3.74" / 124 x 80 x 95 mm |
| Weight | 1.19 lb / 540 g With memory card and battery |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 16 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
87%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (13)
- Good image quality (9)
- Large clear LCD (9)
- Zoom range/performance (9)
- Compact (8)
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel (13)
- Landscape/scenery (10)
- Family photos (9)
- Wildlife (8)
- Sports/action (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (6), Casual photographer (5), Semi-pro photographer (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (14)
Most Liked Positive Review
Not just a point and shoot
As a professional photographer I have never owned a "point and shoot". I would put the Lux 3 in that category but I can't imagine that there is a better one. ...Read complete review
As a professional photographer I have never owned a "point and shoot". I would put the Lux 3 in that category but I can't imagine that there is a better one. 600mm and 60fps...are you kidding? Last time I checked, my really expensive stuff gets about 12fps. Amazing....
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
An Identical Twin
This "Leica" is identical in every way to Panasonic's Lumix FZ150, including the Leica lens! Identical, that is, except for the price tag and the name. Look, and find yo...Read complete review
This "Leica" is identical in every way to Panasonic's Lumix FZ150, including the Leica lens! Identical, that is, except for the price tag and the name. Look, and find you've paid twice the price simply for the "red dot logo!" Leica lovers should know that the V-Lux 3 is made of ordinary plastic, and does not fit comfortably in the hand. The design is shockingly poor; the lens hood hides important camera controls when it is in the reversed, storage position, and it does not fit the lens symetrically when attached for use! Perhaps the lens cap was a designer's joke, because it falls off easily--especially with any light tug from the attached wrist strap, or from a little friction inside a pocket.
Neither the V-Lux 3 nor its twin Lumix FZ-150, are worthy of Leica's well-earned reputation. Picture quality is acceptable, but not noteworthy. The wide telephoto range of the lens will be the only attraction for a discerning point n' shoot photographer. Have money to burn? Light up, fire away with this red dot, but it might be wise to wonder what prompts the smiles!
Reviewed by 16 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-16
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Expensive
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
The size and the lense are perfect for traveling when you do not want to carry a lot of gear. I wish the feel of the camera were more "solid" in your hand regarding the materials used of the housing.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Continuous Shooting
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- LCD swings rotates
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
- High price
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
I consider myself to be an advanced amateur photographer, and I use my camera mostly for travel, which I do very frequently.
I also own a Leica V-Lux 2, which is very good, so when the V-lux 3 came out I was hesitant to buy it because the V-Lux 3 is of course very similar to the V-Lux 2. However I now have no doubt that upgrading to the V-lux 3 was the correct decision, because in my opinion the V-Lux 3 consistently produces better exposed photos in all light conditions, and much less noise in low light.
What is not so great about these cameras is price. I do not know whether the price can be reduced to about half or less by buying a Lumix instead, as I have never owned or used a Lumix. Although the hardware seems to be identical, I am not familiar with the results produced by the Lumix.
I previously owned Nikon and Canon equivalents of the V-lux 3, and both are very good cameras, but for me there is no doubt that the Leica produces results that are significantly superior.
The Leica V-lux 3 is a great camera. Highly recommended.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Leica V-lux 2, Canon D20
Pros
- Good in Low Light
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
Superb imaging and handling. One of the best combinations of digital power and slide-film like
image quality.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
I bought a D-Lux 4 several years ago to replace my beloved Digilux. Even after purchasing the removable handgrip and viewfinder, I was still frustrated because the D-Lux was physically too small for me to use effectively. The V-Lux 3 is a solution to my problem because it provides me with enough body to hold comfortably. It is light enough to carry easily while traveling so I don't have to lug my heavier body and lenses around to get the picture quality I am looking for.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
Even though Photography is only a hobby for me, I enjoy taking pictures of wildlife and landscapes. There were a couple of reasons I bought this camera... #1 being the zoom equivalent to 600mm, which is great for what I am using it for. #2 reason being the video portion of the camera. The perfect camera for me so I don't have to keep switching from my DLSR and video camera. I am totally satisfied with the camera and would definitely recommend it. Although I'm not a pro, it's the perfect equipment for what I'm using it for.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Great Zoom
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
This was purchased to replace a D Lux 3, that was simply not versatile enough to capture everything when traveling. The camera is easy to use, light to carry all day and gives great quality images. The most amazing trait though is the stunning range of focal lengths. There is no reason to miss any photo opportunities with such a wonderful range.
Whilst only having used the camera for a couple of weekends we have taken over 500 shots and simply love getting out of doors to 'play' with it.
The only negative I can think of is that manual focus when in macro mode is a bit cumbersome
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fantastic versatility
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro photos
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
Everything is possible with this camera, it is handy,ligth, compact, it goes from wide angle (24mm) super zoom (600mm);lens is stabilized, I have made amazing pictures with the zoom at 600mm at a speed of 1/50sec open at f5.2. Picture quality is outstanding. It can be used in all circumstances,very low ligth, portrait,cities,art,landscape, macro,sport,wildlife,birds, safaris, family, etc... and I don't speak about video which I did not try yet.
The possibilities playing with the different menus are
outstanding. Instruction book is easy to use, it can be printed from CDrom on a recto verso and you get a little handy book. This camera is the one of the future with all his functionalities, it can replace every other heavy and bulky camera with one piece of equipment. It is a treasure of technology !
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
I had reservations before buying this camera but once I saw the pictures and worked with it I am pleased
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Audio Quality
- Good Video Quality
- Lightweight
- Wide telephtoto range
Cons
- Flimsy Construction
- Poor design
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
- Walk-Around Fun
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
This "Leica" is identical in every way to Panasonic's Lumix FZ150, including the Leica lens! Identical, that is, except for the price tag and the name. Look, and find you've paid twice the price simply for the "red dot logo!" Leica lovers should know that the V-Lux 3 is made of ordinary plastic, and does not fit comfortably in the hand. The design is shockingly poor; the lens hood hides important camera controls when it is in the reversed, storage position, and it does not fit the lens symetrically when attached for use! Perhaps the lens cap was a designer's joke, because it falls off easily--especially with any light tug from the attached wrist strap, or from a little friction inside a pocket.
Neither the V-Lux 3 nor its twin Lumix FZ-150, are worthy of Leica's well-earned reputation. Picture quality is acceptable, but not noteworthy. The wide telephoto range of the lens will be the only attraction for a discerning point n' shoot photographer. Have money to burn? Light up, fire away with this red dot, but it might be wise to wonder what prompts the smiles!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Good Audio Quality
- Good Video Quality
- Great Picture Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
Excellent camera for travel, small enough for backpacks and all the extras for photographing beautiful memories.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
I am really pleased with the telephoto capabilities. Looking forward to some serious evaluation of the quality of the extreme focal length photos
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
When I first picked up this camera I wasn't sure if it was truly as good as I had hoped. After the first few pictures I took I was amazed at the quality and detail. I have tried several cameras, both DSLRs and point & shoot, but I don't think I have ever had such amazing detail right from the start. GREAT CAMERA....
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
I am in the air force and just got my camera last week. Yes a very hefty price tag but you get your bang for your buck! These are the ferraris of the camera world. Makes Nikon's and Cannon's curl up like little puppy dogs.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Lens cap
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
I'm a three-decade Leica user. Still using film with the ol' M-4, a handy CL and a half-dozen lenses, but wanted the convenience of a digital w/o having to bite the financial bullet for the Digital M. So far, I'm pleased with the numerous menus and the ease of access. But I haven't had an opportunity to take the camera out and really put it through its paces.
i've clicked off about fifty images, and I'm pleased so far.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Poor Image Quality
Best Uses
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
Zoom lens does not have the resolution of my V-Lux 20. Very disappointing.
- Ease of Operation:
- 5
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Leica V-Lux 3 Digital Camera:
As a professional photographer I have never owned a "point and shoot". I would put the Lux 3 in that category but I can't imagine that there is a better one. 600mm and 60fps...are you kidding? Last time I checked, my really expensive stuff gets about 12fps. Amazing....
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-16
Memory Cards
Required item: Sufficient memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $13.95
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $67.94
-
- Original: $19.95
- Save: $1.99
- Price: $17.96
Bags & Straps
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or a strap.
-
- Original: $15.49
- Save: $1.55
- Price: $13.94
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
Screen Protectors
Protect your LCD screen from scratches and finger prints.
-
- Original: $14.95
- Save: $1.49
- Price: $13.46
Card Readers
Download your pictures faster and save battery life.
- Price: $9.95
What's in the Box
- Lens Cap
- BC-DC9 Battery Charger
- V-Lux 2 BP-DC 9 U Li-Ion Battery
- Lens Hood
- Carrying Strap
- A/V Cable
- USB Cable
- Instruction CD
- Adobe Elements & Premiere Elements Software Via Free Download
- 2-Year Limited Warranty
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